Here's a piece I did using only Manga Studio 4 and a Bamboo tablet (click image for full sized original).

I was a Sprouse fan before reading the book, but I feel I have an even greater appreciation for his work after reading--which is exactly what TwoMorrows' Modern Masters series is supposed to do. As I said earlier, it will appeal to the fans of Chris Sprouse, while also appealing to aspiring artists who want to know how a "master" thinks. It's entertaining, informative, and an all around great read.

Anway, I can't say the book is bad, just nothing new. If you read Kingdom Comeor read JSA, then there's no reason for you to read this. If you're a new reader, you might get something out of this. Though, I have to wonder, if don't read JSA or haven't read Kingdom Come, then what reason would you have to pick up this book?

Overall, Shadow Chronicles #1 is worth a read. It's a good teaser for the future series. There's enough substance here to make it worth a look, as none of the stories come off as simple trailers. It reads as a collection of first issues, and at $3.99 that's a pretty good deal.

I gave this issue 2 1/2 bullets, because I hate to say reading, regardless of what, is a waste of time. Truth is though, I'd rather have been hexed, than have read Hexed.

I'm giving this issue a four rating only because it's the last part of a story arc. But I'd give the whole of "Secret Origin" a five. If you enjoy well told superhero stories, then you should do yourself a favor and start reading Green Lantern. It really is one of the best books going right now; intricately layered without being to heavy-handed. This issue may not be the best jumping on point for a new reader, simply because it's the end of a story, but that just means the next issue will be since it starts a whole new adventure.

If you're reading The Brave and the Bold, then this issue won't let you down. If you're not currently reading it, this is a good starting point. The issue is a good example of what the series' overall agenda is (I think) -- team-up two heroes with different approaches and attitudes while exploring their underlying similarities.

To sum up: Is this issue of Booster going to win an Eisner? No, but it will make you laugh.